News

Best Foot Forward: Early Prevention for Healthy Feet

Date: 2024-05-28

May is Foot Health Month, and it's the perfect time to talk about how to keep your feet healthy and what trouble signs to look for. "It's so important to check your feet every day for changes," says Allison Luther, Regional Wound Care Program Manager at St. Joseph's Care Group. "If you take care of your feet, you can prevent wounds from developing, which could save your life."

Here's some simple steps you can take for better foot health:

• Check your feet daily. Keep an eye on your feet for any changes in how they look or feel. If anything seems off, contact your doctor or healthcare team.
• Wash your feet daily with soap and water. Dry carefully between your toes.
• Apply lotion to the tops and bottoms of your feet (not between your toes!).
• Get shoes that fit just right - not too loose or too tight! Always shake out your shoes before putting them on.
• Keep any cuts or scratches clean, dry and covered.

Foot wounds can escalate quickly if not properly cared for, especially for those living with diabetes or circulation issues. Here are some of the signs you should be on the lookout for.

See your primary care provider and keep your feet clean and covered if you have:

• Cuts;
• Blisters;
• Reddened spots; and/or
• Drainage, or bodily fluids, on your socks.

See your healthcare provider as soon as possible if you have:

• A visible wound on your feet or toes;
• Swelling;
• Redness;
• Drainage, or bodily fluids;
• Unusual warmth; and/or
• A foul smell to your feet.

Whether it's a blister from ill-fitting shoes or a wound that goes unnoticed, quick attention is crucial and early intervention is key. Together, we can take proactive steps towards healthier, happier feet!

For more information about how you can keep your feet healthy, check out these helpful videos from the Wound Care team: https://shorturl.at/ou5yB.

Learn more about the Regional Wound Care Program here: https://rwcp.sjcg.net.

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